Synthesis of optically active bicyclic lactone building blocks using catalytic enantioselective glyoxylate-ene reaction

A new catalytic approach for the formation of optically active bicyclic lactones applying an enantioselective glyoxylate-ene reaction is presented; the catalytic reaction proceeds with formation of the two key stereogenic centers in good yield and with high diastereo- and enantio-selectivity.